Barbara Jean Marie Heggie

Barbara Jean Marie Heggie was born on April 10, 1948, in Oxford, North Carolina.  She passed away on June 2, 2024, at Staten Island University Hospital surrounded by family and friends. 

Barbara attended the Granville County School District and was among the first group of African American students to integrate and graduate from J.F. Webb High School in 1966.  It was her personal choice to be a part of the integration.

She then attended Bennett College in Greensboro, North Carolina where she studied Psychology and Sociology and eventually earned her Master’s Degree from a university in West Virginia.  She later moved to Staten Island and in 1972 began working at the Willowbrook State School which later became the Staten Island Developmental Disabilities Council.  She retired in 2010 and received an award of recognition for over 38 years of dedicated service as a Licensed Master Social Worker II to the State of New York and the SIDDCO.

Barbara was an avid sports fanatic.  She loved to swim and played softball in her youth.  She also enjoyed watching football and basketball.  She loved listening to jazz music and attending jazz festivals.

Barbara was predeceased by her mother, Ethel Lee Marrow, stepfather, John Henry Marrow, father, Clanton Earl Smith and brother-in-law, Larry Cobb.

She is survived by her step-mother, Marie Smith; two aunts, Eva and Odessa; one uncle, Marvin; four sisters, Linda Cobb, Marlene Marrow, Sharon Marrow and Lisa Marrow-Spann(Robert); six brothers, Elton Marrow, Stanley and Derrick Smith, John Timothy Marrow(Stacey), Leonard and Eric Smith(Gaye); four nieces, Lashell (Joseph), Danika, Michaela and Tyanna; 6 nephews, Derrick, Terrence, Tyquan, Montel, Stanley, Jr., and Cory; 6 grand-nieces, Tae’Jonea, Angel, Cameron, Zion Marie, Christianna and Samone;  5 grand-nephews, Tae’Quan (Odalys), Jerrell, Jayden, Bryant Lamar, and Derrick, Jr.; one great grand-niece, Royalty and one great grand-nephew, King.

She also leaves behind to cherish her memories, her beloved cousins Josephine Crews and Calvine Lawrence; her long-time partner, Myron; her special friends, Monica, Yvonne, Elaine, Beverly, Darlene, Andre’, Cherlyl, Tannis, Cousin “Earl”, and her beloved godson, William as well as a host of family and friends.

Barbara expressed her desire to be cremated in place of a traditional funeral service.  All acquainted with her know she never liked being the center of attention.  So, as we honor her wishes, let us remember the beautiful moments we shared with her and celebrate her life.

In place of flowers or memorial services, we kindly request that you consider donating in her name, Barbara Jean Marie Heggie, to a cause close to her heart, the American Cancer Society.  Thank you for your understanding and support during this difficult time.  Let us cherish the memories and keep her spirit alive in our hearts.

With Love,

The Family of Barbara Jean Marie Heggie

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